A child using smart phone lying in bed late at night

The Impact of Social Media and the Internet on Children, and the Need for Parental Controls

Published June 23, 2025

The Voices section is a place for physicians, staff and community leaders to share their perspectives on all things healthcare. Dr. Dupinderjit Bhangal graduated from the Valley Children’s Residency Program in 2025.

As pediatricians, we are acutely aware of the profound effects technology can have on children’s physical and mental well-being. The internet and social media, in particular, have become omnipresent in children’s lives, often starting at a very young age. While technology can provide numerous educational and entertainment benefits, it also brings about challenges that cannot be overlooked. As healthcare professionals, it’s essential to help parents navigate the digital world to ensure their children’s safety, mental health, and development.

The Rise of Social Media and Internet Usage Among Children

According to recent studies, children as young as 2 or 3 years old are exposed to smartphones and tablets, and by the time they reach adolescence, they are likely to be fully immersed in social media platforms, gaming, and browsing. With this surge in usage, we are seeing both positive and negative outcomes. On the one hand, the internet provides access to educational tools, resources, and communities that can support a child’s learning and growth. On the other hand, there are significant risks involved, including exposure to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, online predators, and the potential for addiction.

The Impact on Mental and Physical Health

The effects of prolonged social media use and excessive screen time on children’s mental health are becoming more evident. Research suggests that high social media usage is associated with anxiety, depression, and poor self-esteem. Children, particularly adolescents, are vulnerable to the pressures of comparison, the desire for validation, and the effects of online bullying. Additionally, constant screen time disrupts sleep patterns, increases the risk of obesity, and leads to decreased physical activity—issues that pediatricians are increasingly addressing in their practices.

Children may also struggle with body image issues due to the unrealistic beauty standards often promoted on social media platforms. The impact is not limited to girls, as boys also experience pressure related to body image, social status, and other factors influenced by online culture. These digital pressures can severely affect a child’s mental well-being, sometimes leading to long-term consequences.

Parental Controls: A Necessary Line of Defense

Given the potential risks, it’s essential for parents to be proactive in managing their children’s online activities. As pediatricians, we can guide them in implementing effective parental controls to safeguard their children’s well-being while still allowing them to enjoy the benefits of technology.

Setting Screen Time Limits
One of the most effective strategies is to set limits on the amount of time children spend on screens. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than one hour of screen time per day for children aged 2 to 5, and consistent limits on screen time for older children. Too much screen time can negatively affect a child’s cognitive development, academic performance, and social skills.
Using Parental Control Software
There are a variety of apps and built-in features on devices that allow parents to monitor and control what their children can access online. Parental control software can block inappropriate content, limit access to social media sites, and track a child’s online behavior. Encouraging parents to use these tools can help ensure their children are not exposed to harmful material.
Open Communication About Online Safety
It’s important for parents to have open, honest conversations with their children about the potential dangers of the internet. Encourage them to talk about what they encounter online, and to always come to a trusted adult if something makes them feel uncomfortable or unsafe. Regular check-ins will help children feel more comfortable discussing issues like cyberbullying or inappropriate content.
Educating About Cyberbullying and Online Etiquette
Many children are unaware of the implications of their actions online, including the impact of bullying, harassment, and oversharing personal information. As pediatricians, we can help parents understand the importance of teaching their children about digital citizenship, responsible online behavior, and how to respond to cyberbullying.
Encouraging a Balanced Digital Diet
In addition to limiting screen time, it’s important to promote a healthy balance. Encouraging children to engage in activities that don’t involve screens—such as outdoor play, reading, or creative pursuits—will help reduce their dependency on digital devices and promote a well-rounded lifestyle.

The Role of Pediatricians in Guiding Parents

As trusted healthcare providers, pediatricians play a pivotal role in guiding parents through the complex digital landscape. We are uniquely positioned to educate families about the potential impacts of social media and internet use on children’s health. By providing resources, offering advice on managing screen time, and discussing the emotional and psychological implications of digital exposure, we can help parents make informed decisions for their children’s well-being.

It’s essential that we approach this issue with a sense of collaboration. Technology is not going away, and it can have a positive role in a child’s life when used responsibly. Our goal as pediatricians is to empower parents to create a healthy and safe digital environment for their children while fostering real-world connections and activities that support balanced development.

Conclusion

While social media and internet access offer children opportunities for learning and connection, they also pose significant risks. By advocating for appropriate parental controls, fostering open communication, and encouraging a balanced approach to screen time, pediatricians can help families navigate the complexities of digital life. Ultimately, our role is to ensure that children grow up in an environment where they can thrive both online and offline.

Let’s work together to help parents understand the importance of protecting their children from the potential harms of the internet, while ensuring they have access to the benefits that technology can offer.